What is colostrum? Best supplements we tried and their benefits

Nature’s original superfood is back in the spotlight.

Now, colostrum — the first milk mammals produce after giving birth — is being bottled up and rebranded for grown-ups.

As a health and wellness writer, I’ve sifted through just about every supplement trend the internet has to offer, from probiotic-packed green juices to anti-aging elixirs, hangover cures and even testosterone replacement therapy. There was one frontier I hadn’t crossed yet: bovine biohacking.

I wasn’t exactly new to colostrum. Shortly after giving birth, mothers (human and not) produce this nutrient-rich milk, which is packed with immune-boosting compounds meant to nourish newborns in their first few days of life.

Most people are familiar with the biological context of colostrum; fewer are aware of the bovine colostrum supplements available on Amazon from popular brands like Bloom, ARMRA, and Cowboy Colostrum.

But over the past few years, colostrum supplements have begun flooding my social feeds, with thousands of wellness gurus blending these powders into their smoothies, touting benefits like stronger immunity, better gut health, glowing skin and even thicker hair and nails.

At a certain point, my question became: What doesn’t colostrum claim to do?

For more information on the colostrum craze, The Post consulted Katelyn Bedford, who holds a B.S. in Human Nutrition from Purdue University, and is the founder and owner of Wellness the Right Way.

What is Colostrum? 

“Colostrum is the thick, golden, nutrient-dense fluid produced by mammals in the first few days after giving birth,” Bedford stated. She explained that chemical makeup is very rich in immune factors, growth factors, and bioactive compounds. “This helps protect and strengthen the newborn’s immune system and gut barrier.”

Several brands have sought to replicate this ‘golden milk’ with a variety of supplement products. In supplement form, colostrum is most often sourced from cows. According to Bedford, bovine colostrum contains similar beneficial compounds for humans, especially when it’s sourced properly.

Colostrum quality varies widely depending on how the product is collected and processed. Bedford suggested looking for colostrum products that contain at least 20% IgG content (immunoglobulins).

Read on for our first-person reviews of some of the best colostrum supplements, and check out the FAQ section for more information on how to select the formula for your goals.

Bloom’s Colostrum & Collagen Peptides 3-in-1 formula has quickly emerged as one of the most recognizable — and trusted — products in the space. The blend features bioactive colostrum, grass-fed collagen peptides, and premium probiotics to promote skin, hair, and nail health, balance the gut microbiome and support immunity. Reviewers appreciate the tasty flavor variety, love how easily it blends into drinks and some have reported positive results in the first few days of use.

New York Post Review: I’ve heard all the buzz around Bloom, so it didn’t exactly surprise me when the powder dissolved easily, and the flavors tasted so good that I started replacing my sweet treats with a single serving. They’re craveable, refreshing, and super light — unlike some of the thicker brands that foam up. After the first week of testing, I noticed my skin looking brighter, and my hair and nails thriving (to the point of my nail tech commenting on the growth). It might not be a miracle cure for gut health or a magic bullet for immunity, but for me, it was very easy to incorporate into my routine and effective enough that I can confidently recommend it to my friends and family who are looking to get back that glow.

Colostrum: 1g | Sugar: <1g | Protein: 3g | Form: Powder | IgG content: Roughly 40%

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ARMRA is among the most respected colostrum brands on the internet, with a formula that features over 400 powerful nutrients that have been validated by third-party clinical research. The results speak for themselves. ARMRA outperforms standard colostrum. Over three months, 86% of users experienced less bloating, 79% grew thicker hair, and 80% improved their lean muscle mass. So, what exactly makes ARMRA stand out? It’s all about potency. ARMRA uses a unique cold-chain process to preserve nutrients in their purest and most powerful form for maximum impact

New York Post Review: If you’ve seen an ARMRA ad before, you know that it’s no ordinary colostrum. ARMRA shows its work with the data, and that’s why many users are willing to pay the premium price tag. It’s also one of the cleanest formulas on the market. No sugar, gluten, GMOs, hormones, binders, etc. The brand recommends taking up to four daily servings, either whisked into liquids or as dry scoops. Some clumping is to be expected — according to the brand, that’s ‘ARMRA’s purity on full display.’ This didn’t bother me at all, and the fact that there are several flavors to choose from is another huge draw. The Vine Watermelon and Blood Orange taste like elevated mocktails, so it’s not difficult to add to your routine. After two weeks of use, I began to experience some of the benefits reviewers rave about: elevated mood, improved sleep, and increased energy. Even my gut felt more settled after meals. I’m not saying ARMRA is magic, but it certainly feels close.

Colostrum: 1g | Sugar: N/A | Protein: <1g | Form: Powder | IgG content: Roughly 40%

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Cowboy is all about being ‘pure and simple,’ and this formula hits the nail on the head. The colostrum used is unstripped and full-fat, collected within the first day after the calf is born, for the highest concentration of bioactive ingredients. There are no added hormones, sugar, fillers or preservatives. The vanilla and chocolate flavors use real cocoa powder, natural vanilla and monk fruit sweetener to soften up the flavor. No junk, and you can pronounce every ingredient. Each serving packs in a whopping 3 grams of colostrum, slightly higher than other brands on this list. That’s a serious selling point for those who want to reap the benefits. But, reviewers do mention that a single serving scoop is a bit hefty, so perhaps you’ll decide to break it up into smaller servings.

New York Post Review: The Cowboy craze is real. I’ve seen it used by celebs like Sofia Grainge and high-profile personal trainers across social media. The packaging is sleek and easy to read, and the ingredients are just as simple. Unlike most of the formulas I tested, each Cowboy serving packs 3 grams of colostrum and they’re coming straight from the source. You’re certainly getting more bang for your buck in that regard, but I do agree with some of the reviews about the serving size. That scoop is huge. If you want it to blend better or if you find the flavor too overpowering, I’d recommend splitting it up into a couple of doses. Some foaming is normal.

Colostrum: 3g | Sugar: N/A | Protein: 2g | Form: Powder | IgG content: N/A

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If you want your colostrum collected from some of the happiest, healthiest cows on the planet, Fasted Athlete’s PureGold Colostrum might be your first pick. This colostrum is sourced exclusively from small, regenerative farms in New Zealand. The cows graze year-round without exposure to antibiotics, hormones, or harmful chemicals, ensuring a clean and ethically produced supplement from start to finish. The packaging is also incredibly convenient. On-the-go packets make it possible to take your colostrom on the go, so you never miss a serving.

New York Post Review: I’m all for a pre-portioned packet. Fasted Athlete claims a major win on that front. The serving size is manageable, and with 2 grams in each dose, I didn’t feel like I needed to double up. There’s only one flavor option (unflavored), but I found it to be true to its description. I could barely taste it in my drinks, and dry-scooping wasn’t half as terrible as I expected. I’d just suggest following with a swig of water. As reviewers pointed out, it does stick to the teeth a bit. As they also pointed out, it really does work, and it doesn’t take long to feel the benefits. I found that my energy levels were up while taking PureGold, and I began to notice some changes in my skin texture and nail strength, as well. I wish that it were third-party tested, but other than that, I’m pretty impressed with this sustainably sourced supplement.

Colostrum: 2g | Sugar: N/A | Protein: 1g | Form: Powder| IgG content: Roughly 50%

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If you’ve ever seen a clip from Ballerina Farm on social media, you know their farm-fresh recipes come straight from the source, and the protein powder is no exception. This TikTok-viral supplement is a favorite of our Social Media Manager, as well as thousands of users who swear by the sweet flavor. With a unique blend of 100% grass-fed whey, collagen peptides, hemp protein and calf-first bovine colostrum, it’s safe to save a spot for Ballerina Farm’s Protein Powder on this list.

New York Post Review: “I love any sort of immunity and gut health hack, and when I heard the Ballerina Farm protein had colostrum, I was so intrigued. The texture is almost akin to a smoothie when pairing it with whole milk; it’s honestly so delicious. I didn’t initially think the hype would align for me, but for how intentionally the ingredients are so intentionally made for this to be a new favorite protein of mine.” — Michelle Moezam, Sr. Commerce Social Media Marketing Manager

Colostrum: N/A | Sugar: N/A | Protein: 24g | Form: Powder | IgG content: N/A

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Cymbiotika does colostrum a little differently. Rather than creating a powderized blend, this brand offers ready-to-consume liquid packets. Simply tear, squeeze, and enjoy. No mess involved. The salty vanilla flavor has received many positive reviews, but others have noted that it’s very rich-tasting. Customers generally appreciate how easy it is to take on the go. Yes, it’s on the pricier side, but you’re getting 100% pure colostrum, with every batch traceable back to trusted dairy farms.

Colostrum: 1.5g | Sugar: 2g | Protein: 1g | Form: Liquid | IgG content: N/A

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This family-owned and operated brand has created a premium colostrum supplement available in two forms: powders and capsules. If you’re looking to skip the mess of mixing, the capsules may be the right choice. Just consider that one serving requires four pills, so they may be less-than-ideal for someone who struggles with swallowing. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of powder flavor options. Customers enjoy the unique options like Elderberry and Matcha, and say the blend mixes well. While some competitors choose to remove beneficial fats or introduce additives, WONDERCOW’S product remains unaltered, delivering a full spectrum of essential nutrients straight from the source.

Colostrum: 2g | Sugar: N/A | Protein: 1g | Form: Powder, capsules | IgG content: Roughly 40%

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Vital Proteins is a trusted name in the supplement space, and several customers have reported improvement in their gut health after a couple of weeks of use. The best part? No dry scooping required! Vital Protein Colostrum Powder is formulated to support digestion and immune health with easy-to-swallow vegetarian capsules. Yes, you’ll still need to pop three pills for the full serving, but it’s still a great alternative for those who don’t love the idea of dry scooping or mixing powders and liquids.

Colostrum: 1.35g | Sugar: N/A | Protein: <1g | Form: Capsules | IgG content: Roughly 40%

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Double Wood Supplements has another grass-fed colostrum formula available in both powder and capsule form, and the capsule version offers 60 servings (enough to last you a full two months). The Colstrum count is a bit lower than other brands at 1 gram per serving, but users can double up if they choose. Reviewers say they feel more balanced and have noted improvements in their gut health since starting Double Wood Colostrum.

Colostrum: 1g | Sugar: N/A | Protein: N/A | Form: Powder, Capsules | IgG content: Roughly 15%

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How we tested

Over the course of three months, we tested five different brands of colostrum for roughly two weeks each, considering a number of factors for this review — the flavor, tolerability, quality, as well as external and internal benefits experienced over the two-week period.

• Flavor and texture: A powderized supplement should easily dissolve in liquid and taste good enough to drink. We examined the thickness, consistency and dissolvability of each supplement in room-temperature and cold water (per the label’s directions). While flavor is subjective, notes were provided on sweetness, aftertaste, bitterness, chalkiness, etc. Preference was given to brands with larger flavor varieties, as well as powders with smoother textures.
• Tolerability and side-effects: While I did not experience any notable negative side-effects while using these colostrum supplements, colostrum products do contain dairy, so we do not recommend drinking them if you have a dairy allergy or you are lactose-intolerant. As with any supplement, it’s essential to consult your doctor before use. Be sure to disclose any medications or supplements you’re currently taking to help avoid potential interactions or side effects.
• Quality and ingredients: Quality is key. Per the expert’s recommendations, we looked for grass-fed colostrum supplements that were third-party tested, sustainably, and humanely sourced. We considered the dosage, including the amount of colostrum in each serving (at least 20% IgG content), and whether there were any added ingredients, such as sugar, artificial dyes, or preservatives.
• External and internal benefits: While some colostrum brands recommend consistent, long-term use for optimal results, noticeable short-term benefits can also be impressive. Over the two-week testing period, I carefully tracked any visible improvements in my hair, skin, and nails, alongside changes in appetite, digestion, and overall gut health. I also paid close attention to shifts in my energy levels and sleep quality.

Colostrum FAQs

What should users look for in a high-quality colostrum supplement? 

Bedford has recommended selecting a colostrum supplement that meets the following criteria:

• First-milking colostrum (most potent)
• Low-temperature processing to preserve nutrients
• Third-party testing for purity and potency 
• Grass-fed, pasture-raised sourcing 
• At least 20-30% IgG content (immunoglobulins) 
• No fillers, artificial flavors or unnecessary additives 

Do colostrum supplements really work?

“Colostrum works on two main fronts,” Bedford stated. “Gut Integrity and Immune Defense. Growth factors in colostrum help strengthen the intestinal lining, reducing ‘leaky gut’ and promoting better nutrient absorption. For immune defense, colostrum contains immunoglobulins that help neutralize harmful bacteria and viruses, plus lactoferrin, which has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.”

There could also be some added perks from colostrum use. Colostrum works by revitalizing the body from the inside out. Many colostrum users also report a range of physical benefits — such as longer hair, stronger nails and even a brighter complexion.

How long does it take to notice the benefits of colostrum? 

The timing varies depending on the goal, according to Bedford.

“For gut health, some individuals notice improvements in digestion and bloating in as little as two to four weeks,” she mentioned. “Immune benefits are more gradual, building consistent use, often within four to eight weeks.”

How often should someone take colostrum? 

Colostrum can be taken for short-term use as needed, but consistency tends to yield the best results, according to Bedford. She explained that colostrum is safe for daily use for those interested in ongoing immune and gut support, so long as you’re following the directions on the label and dosing accordingly.

She also shared that other users prefer cycling colostrum supplements. “For example, two to three months on and one month off,” she recommended. “This can be beneficial for individuals who use it for seasonal immune resilience or during periods of high stress.”

What are the disadvantages of colostrum?

Bedford emphasized that colostrum is generally well-tolerated, but there are a few potential side effects, including gas, bloating and loose stools. “Rarely, mild digestive discomfort may occur during the first few days as the gut adjusts. This typically resolved quickly.”

She also pointed out that colostrum has a low level of lactose, which could affect someone with lactose intolerance. Because it contains milk proteins, colostrum is not safe for those with a true dairy allergy. She advises consulting your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

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This article was written by Miska Salemann, New York Post Commerce Writer/Reporter. As a health-forward member of Gen Z, Miska seeks out experts to weigh in on the benefits, safety and designs of both trending and tried-and-true fitness equipment, workout clothing, dietary supplements and more. Taking matters into her own hands, Miska intrepidly tests wellness products, ranging from Bryan Johnson’s Blueprint Longevity Mix to home gym elliptical machines to Jennifer Aniston’s favorite workout platform – often with her adorable one-year old daughter by her side. Before joining The Post, Miska covered lifestyle and consumer topics for the U.S. Sun and The Cannon Beach Gazette.

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